The 10 Best Running Socks for Men, Tested by Fitness Editors

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YOUR RUNNING SOCKS are the unsung heroes in your lineup of workout clothes. Think about it: they help prevent blisters, wick away sweat, and ward off odor. From a comfort perspective, the materials used in the best running socks deliver the perfect amount of compression and cushioning inside your favorite running shoes.

Over the past four years, our fitness editors have tested over 40 pairs of running socks to see which ones help them go the distance. From their experience, we curated a list of the best running socks for every type of preference, ranging from compression socks to wool socks, to, of course, moisture-wicking socks.

Best Running Socks for Men

What to Consider

Material

Most running socks are made of merino wool because it regulates temperature, moves away sweat and fights odor. Some even use a blend of synthetic fabrics—polyester, nylon and spandex—to enhance durability and elasticity, ensuring they provide comfort, support and longevity during long runs or intense workouts. By any means, avoid cotton. It’s prone to retain more moisture and cause heat and friction, thus increasing the chance of blisters and calluses.

Fit

“When selecting proper running socks it is important that the socks are sized properly and hold their shape through each wash," says foot and ankle surgeon, podiatrist, and track coach Dr. Mark J. Mendeszoon, FACFAS, FACPM. That said, they should fit snugly, but too tight, so they stay in place without squeezing the life out of your feet. Speaking of which, there’s a few different types that dial in the perfect fit.

No Shows

If you’re all about that low-key vibe, there are no-show running socks that hideout inside your shoes. Sitting below the ankle bone, they’re more ideal for hot weather and made with less material. Make sure there’s cushioning on the back of the cuff to avoid rubbing from the shoe against your skin, which can cause blisters.

Ankle Socks

These socks perfectly bridge the gap between coverage and breathability. Not too tall, not too short, rather stopping above the shoe line, this kind prevents rubbing and chafing without feeling too bulky or stifling.

Crew Socks

This classic cut sits at the middle of the calf, offering more coverage and support. Unlike ankle or no-show socks, crew socks will stay put instead of slipping down in your shoe and rubbing against your skin.

Three-Quarter-Length Socks

Quarter-length running socks are shorter than crew socks, so they won’t feel too bulky or restrictive, but still allow for increased airflow around your ankles, helping your feet remain cool and comfortable during your run. Mostly favored by trail runners, the higher cuff protects your ankles from prickly brushes and debris along rugged terrain.

How We Selected

Experts, including our fashion director Ted Stafford and senior editor Brett Williams, NASM, put a number of running socks to the test and evaluated their breathability, cushioning, moisture-wicking capabilities, and price point. From trail junkies to pavement pounders, you'll find each pick has the proper materials and specs to ensure top tier comfort and to help improve your overall performance. Continue reading to see the best running socks for men that will keep your feet happy and give unbeatable support.

High Point Crew

After weighing our options and putting dozens of running socks through the wringer, we crowned Brooks Running’s version as the best overall. This pair of socks earned its stripes after our editors gave them a serious workout from the grueling New York City Marathon to the intense Chevron Houston Marathon. Every time, they’ve come through with flying colors—no blisters, no discomfort—just smooth sailing.

We found that material is tough as nails, keeps your feet cool and shields them from dirt and junk. They have better reinforcement than other styles we’ve put on, making them extra comfortable for long distances and quick jogs. Unlike other rough wool types, this merino wool fabric feels super-fine and soft. Plus, it becomes even smoother after each wash cycle. The one downside is these socks only come in asphalt—a mix of black and gray. But hey, that color is versatile and goes with a wide range of our workout clothes without clashing.

Read more: Best Merino Wool Socks for Men

Crew Run Sock 3-Pack

If you like to run laps on an everyday basis, Hoka has a form-fitting sock designed for regular use. It’s got built-in arch support that helps keep you stable and reduce fatigue, making your runs way more comfortable than before. Not to mention, the sock is made of an incredible blend of materials—including cotton, nylon and elastane—meaning there’s a combination of breathability, durability and stretch to love.

Whether you’re racing, trailing running or walking, this pair can handle all the above. Our testers wear them when sprinting on the treadmill and pounding the pavement. Speaking of which, there’s also reflective branding on the back for nighttime runs to keep you visible during night time jogs, ensuring drivers spot you on dimly lit streets.

Running Calf Sock 3-Pack

Tired of having to bend over half a dozen times a run to adjust your socks’ positioning? Check out the running calf socks from Bombas. They’re designed with stay-up technology to keep them from slipping down while you’re on the move.

As for the comfort, the pair is left-right contoured, so they fit your feet like they’re custom-made just for you. Then there’s the honeycomb support system, which is like a little nest for your arches, cradling them in comfort as you pound the pavement.

These feel more thicker than most running socks in the bunch, but they’re not too suffocating and have sufficient cushioning. We prefer other picks during the summer, however the airflow venting does offer a slice of relief on hot days.

Power Stride Ankle Socks 3 Pack

Lululemon’s PowerStride Ankle socks are a game-changer for runners craving some serious arch support. No matter which way your foot moves—whether you’re sprinting, jumping or kicking back after a long run—these will cradle your arches from all angles and give the stability you need. Also, they’ve got this killer 3D knit Performa heel that locks the socks in place, so you’re not constantly pulling them up. And with the left and right toe construction, each sock molds perfectly to each foot, making sure you’re running in total comfort.

Merino Tube Sock

From the legacy brand that brought you the OG running short, Tracksmith's Tube Sock perfectly merges form and function to meet all your needs. We like this option for its combination of breathable performance wool and classic collegiate styling. Whether you’re hitting the trails or lounging around at home, the socks will feel like a breath of fresh air for your feet.

The merino wool, which is not your average wool, feels so against the skin and provides warmth for brisk morning jogs. While the material does absorb moisture, it remains warm, making it great for managing body temperature. There’s also mid-pile terry in the heel and forefront, so you have pillowy cushioning to rest on with every step.

Aside from training, we found that this pair of socks look sharp with clean, casual looks. Thanks to its vintage cool and modern flair, our fashion editors have rocked them with denim shorts and Nike shoes for a weekend music festival.

Performance Low Sock

On’s running socks cover all the bases compared to other low-cut styles we put to the test. Thanks to their elastane-polyester blend, this pair hugs your feet, giving them that snug-but-not-too-tight fit. This also means they will stay in place during your run without any slipping, bunching or annoying adjustments needed. Plus, the stretch helps them mold to the natural shape of your feet. We love the breathable mesh panels and cushioned sole, which feels like you’re giving your feet a VIP treatment every time you lace up. There’s plenty of support as well as fresh air flowing through your sneakers, especially on hot days.

Light Hiker No Show

Darn Tough’s socks are built with mid-level cushion density that makes them great for various activities beyond running. That means this pair has just the right amount of padding to absorb impact and keep your feet comfy during cardio workouts or long treks. Our testers found that the socks are not so thick where they feel bulky or make your footwear too tight. In other words, you can rock them with your running shoes, casual shoes, or even pickleball shoes.

Due to their invisible feel and lack of movement, we prefer these socks over other tested styles for daily use as well as lifting weights. They have a super lightweight fit and seamless toe construction, so we feel nothing but comfort and ease with every stride. Plus, the merino wool fabric naturally fights off foul odor like nobody’s business.

No-Show Running Socks

Hyalea no show socks are perfect for running because they’ve got all the right perks, like being super blister-resistant. We found that the CoolMax fabric wicks away moisture efficiently, keeping your feet fresh and reducing friction, which means fewer blisters. They’re stretchy enough to prevent any rubbing and irritation mid-run. Not to mention, the high 200 needle count means they’re smoother and tougher than most, further cutting down on potential blister-causing hotspots.

These socks were hands-down one of the comfiest we tried. They’ve got extra padding on both sides and the sole, way more than other styles in our sock drawer. Plus, after a few washes, they've become denser and softer. We’ve even worn them with our golf shoes out on the greens, since the mesh ventilation keeps us cool and collected.

Run Compression Over The Calf Socks

Serious runners will dig this over-the-calf model that measures between 20-30 mmHg (millimeters of mercury), which is a strong level of compression. We like that the fit doesn’t cut off circulation or feel uncomfortable as you’re cranking out those PRs. On top of that, the padding on the ball and heel of the foot adds extra protection, letting you go the distance.

Our only gripe is these socks are pretty pricey for a single pair, but you’ll get tons of wear out of them all year round. Our editors have worn them through the colder months into the warmer seasons with no problem. Bonus: they have mesh zones, which keep your feet feeling breezy and dry during those intense sessions or long days of standing.

ASPIRE ZERO Tab Running Socks

When it comes to wicking away sweat, Swiftwick’s socks are in a league of their own. Thanks to the brand’s special Olefin fiber, which is super breathable and high-performance, it sucks up moisture and dries faster than most. The thin profile is also a great pick for those who wear lightweight trainers and want that barely-there kind of feel.

Unlike some of the other socks we’ve tested, this pair has a combination of ankle compression and arch band support, which helps keep you steady for those quick side-to-side movements during agility drills and circuit exercises. Our testers are big fans of the fit, so they sport these socks when hitting bike trails too. Pedal away without a worry about slipping or sliding.

How To Wash Your Running Socks

You should only wear your running socks once in between washes, as you're feet are going to be sweating in them for long periods of time. “When washing running socks, place in a light spin cycle or hand wash them. Do not place in the dryer and let them air dry,” Dr. Mendeszoon says.

We recommend runner's mark each pair of socks so they can be easily matched up after washing.And when it comes to wearing running socks on race day, Dr. Mendeszoon says to stay consistent, "When big races or long runs are planned, make sure you don't mix and match socks which could cause one foot to wind up with irritation and/or blisters."

Meet the Expert

• Dr. Mark J. Mendeszoon, FACFAS, FACPM, is a foot and ankle surgeon, podiatrist, and track coach

Shop More of the Best Socks for Men

Best Socks for Men | Best Moisture-Wicking Socks | Best No-Show Socks | Best Wool Socks | Best Compression Socks | Warmest Winter Socks

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